Effects of Essential Amino Acid-enriched Whey and Carbohydrate Co-ingestion on Protein Kinetics

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byJess A Gwin, PhD

Age: 18 - 65

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

Previous work conducted by the Investigators demonstrates that an essential amino acid(EAA)-enriched whey protein combination format is an efficient EAA/protein format to support enhanced whole-body protein balance and sustain muscle protein synthesis compared to isonitrogenous amounts of whey alone or a mixed-macronutrient meal. However, additional work is needed to optimize the formulation to ensure the best possible muscle and whole-body anabolic responses are achieved. This includes addressing the potential value of adding non-EAA/protein components to support energy demands. Providing additional non-protein energy to an EAA-enriched whey protein formulation may reduce the proportion of exogenous amino acids directed towards energy production thereby preserving its use for muscle protein synthesis. However, whether suppressing exogenous amino acid oxidation by providing additional carbohydrate allows for a greater muscle protein synthetic stimulus during moderate energy deficit (- 30% total energy requirements) is unknown. Therefore, this study will test the effects of EAA-enriched whey protein plus carbohydrate versus EAA-enriched whey plus additional EAA using a randomized, cross-sectional longitudinal study design.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

Body mass index < 30.0 kg/m2

Weight stable in the past 2 months (± 2.27 kg)

Healthy without evidence of chronic illness or musculoskeletal injury as determined by the USARIEM Office of Medical Support and Oversight (OMSO) or home duty station medical support

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Treatment Details

Interventions

Carbohydrate (Nutritional Support)
EAA+W (Amino Acid Supplement)

Participant Groups

4Treatment groups

Active Control

Group I: EAA+W & Carbohydrate: DEF first, then BALActive Control1 Intervention

Participants will consume an essential amino acid plus whey beverage with added Carbohydrate during energy deficit first, then again during energy balance.

Group II: EAA+W & Carbohydrate: Balance (BAL) first, then Deficit (DEF)Active Control1 Intervention

Participants will consume an essential amino acid plus whey (EAA+W) beverage with added Carbohydrate during energy balance (BAL) first, then again during energy deficit (DEF).

Group III: EAA+W & EAA: BAL first, then DEFActive Control1 Intervention

Participants will consume an essential amino acid (EAA) plus whey beverage with added EAA during energy balance first, then again during energy deficit.

Group IV: EAA+W & EAA: DEF first, then BALActive Control1 Intervention

Participants will consume an essential amino acid (EAA) plus whey beverage with added EAA during energy deficit first, then again during energy balance.